Melanochromis Johanni
Quick Stats
| Size | 5" (13cm) |
|---|---|
| Tank | 120 litres + |
| Swimming Area | All. |
| Ph | 7.4 to 8.9 |
| Temperature | 72ºF to 80ºF(22-27°C) |
| Food | Flaked, pelleted and frozen foods |
Common Name:
Melanochromis Johanni, Electric Blue Johannii, Blue Johanni.
Distribution:
Africa, Lake Malawi.
Colouration:
Like all Melanochromis species, M. johannii has horizontally striped males and females of different colors. Males are a variable bluish black with pale blue or royal blue stripes. The dramatically different females are orange or yellow-orange with indistinct blackish stripes.
Lifespan:
10 years +
Maintenance:
10 to 20% weekly water changes. Melanochromis Johanni is an aggressive fish and intolerant of others in its territory. Tankmates should be from the same area and be able to fend off their attentions.
Feeding:
Does well with flakes and pellets designed for african cichlids. Diet should be supplimented with green vegetables such as romaine lettuce, spinach, peas or zucchini.
Substrate:
Crushed Coral Sand. These guys dig!
Tank Decor:
The set up should be a typical Lake Malawi biotope. Provide plenty of rockwork and caves with hard alkaline water with a pH of at least 7.5. The bottom substrate should be of a material that will aid in the pH buffering capabilities of the water. Good substrate choices could be Dolomite or crushed coral to aid in buffering the water.
Filtration:
Provide good filtration and do frequent water changes.
Biotype:
The rubble and rocky area of lake Malawi.
Breeding:
Not really difficult, they are a typical African mouth-brooder incubating the eggs and protecting their fry in special sacs in the mouth. They are excellent and protective parents and have been known to raise young in crowded community set ups. During this brooding the female will not eat. The young fish will leave the mothers mouth after about twenty five days and be about 1/3 of an inch in length. They will accept all types of food and can grow quickly. These fish are harem breeders so 1 male to 3-5 females is recommended.